What does severe malnutrition, such as marasmus, result in?

Severe malnutrition, particularly in the form of marasmus, is characterized by an extreme deficiency of calories and protein, which leads to significant weight loss and a drastically low weight for age in affected individuals, especially in children. This condition results in a body that is unable to maintain proper physiological function due to inadequate nutritional intake, leading to a thin, frail appearance with overall growth retardation.

In children suffering from marasmus, the lack of essential nutrients means their bodies do not have the necessary resources for energy, which in turn affects their physical and cognitive development. Consequently, this condition creates a cycle where low weight contributes to further health complications, reducing their ability to recover without proper nutritional intervention. The focus remains on weight and growth metrics when diagnosing and treating malnutrition like marasmus, reaffirming that significant low weight for age is a direct consequence of this severe form of malnutrition.